My brain kept relating these cheesy crackers to shortbread cookies — I mean, they are the same shape and size! But each time I took a bite, I was reminded that these are appetizers, not desserts.
I think the texture is a cross between a biscuit and a cracker. It's soft and flaky in the middle, but the edges have a subtle snap to them when you break off a piece with your hands.
The chipotle and the cheese work together to create a flavor profile that, in my opinion, tastes exactly like Cheez-It crackers. The chipotle fills your mouth with a smokey flavor and sometimes hits the back of your throat with heat. It's a really interesting way to deepen the flavors of this baked cheese snack.
If I were making these for a gathering or a holiday, I would put them on a board with things like fresh grapes and sliced cucumber, which would lighten the experience of this rich cracker.
Since it's so easy to make and tastes impressive, I understand why this is the one app Garten makes for parties. As for everything else on the hors d'oeuvre table, store-bought is fine.